West Coast Customs

West Coast Customs (WCC) is a renowned automobile customization company, founded in 1993, and has made a significant impact in the world of custom car culture. Originated in the city of Compton, California, WCC was established by Ryan Friedlinghaus when he was only 18 years old, using a $5,000 loan from his grandfather. The company rapidly garnered attention for its innovative and high-quality automotive modifications and soon moved to a larger facility in Inglewood, California.

The company's breakthrough came in the early 2000s through its association with the hit MTV show Pimp My Ride. Premiering in 2004, the show featured WCC as the primary shop where ordinary cars were transformed into extraordinary custom machines. The popular series, hosted by rapper Xzibit, significantly boosted WCC’s profile, leading to a surge in demand for their services.

In 2008, WCC relocated to Corona, California, to accommodate their growing business. This move not only provided more space for customization but also led to the development of a state-of-the-art facility. Another significant milestone was the launch of Inside West Coast Customs on TLC in 2011. The reality TV series gave viewers an in-depth look into the car customization process and showcased many high-profile projects.

Over the years, WCC has collaborated with numerous celebrities and corporations, delivering custom vehicles for industry giants such as Warner Bros., Microsoft, and Ford. Among their most notable projects are the Batmobile for Warner Bros., the Tron: Legacy Light Cycle for Disney, and the custom-built Mustang for the movie Need for Speed.